‘Can’t give them an advantage in the box’ – Real Betis manager explains what went wrong against Barcelona | OneFootball

Manuel Pellegrini admitted that small defensive mistakes ultimately cost Real Betis during their 1-3 defeat against Barcelona in what turned into an emotional evening at Spotify Camp Nou.

The Catalans secured victory in their final La Liga home game of the season thanks to goals from Raphinha and Joao Cancelo, but the match also became a farewell occasion for Robert Lewandowski, who played his final home game for Barcelona.

What was said?

After the match, Pellegrini analysed the performance of his side and pointed towards key moments where Barcelona’s quality inside the penalty area made the difference.

“It was a match with two distinct halves. A first half with little possession in which they were able to open the scoring from a free-kick.

“For the rest of the first half, they had more possession, and in the second half, with Isco coming on, our approach changed.

Betis gave Barcelona a guard of honour. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

“We had more of the ball and created more chances, but we were unlucky with their two goals. You can’t give Barça an advantage in the box because they’ll finish you off.

Despite the defeat, Pellegrini appeared encouraged by Betis’ response after the break, especially once Isco entered the game and helped improve the visitors’ control in midfield.

“Unfortunately, the result went against us, but I really liked what the team did in the second half,” said the Chilean.

Pellegrini recalls Lewandowski memory

Apart from discussing the match, Pellegrini also took time to speak about Lewandowski and the emotional farewell Barcelona organised for the veteran striker.

The Betis manager recalled a painful memory from his career involving the Polish forward during his time in charge of Malaga.

Pellegrini spoke about Lewandowski’s impact. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

Pellegrini referred to the UEFA Champions League quarter-final clash against Borussia Dortmund in 2013, where Lewandowski played a major role in Malaga’s elimination.

“I had to suffer at his hands. We faced each other in that controversial Malaga-Borussia Dortmund match, which would have had a different result with VAR.”

The Chilean coach then praised Lewandowski’s remarkable career and admitted the striker fully deserved the emotional send-off he received from Barcelona supporters.

“He’s had a brilliant career and here in Barcelona he’s shown that with his goals. 

“I’m delighted he’s had such a great send-off, because he thoroughly deserved it for what he’s achieved throughout his career,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo